Video Update: Public Safety Report & New Down Payment Housing Program for Sworn Police and Fire

Join Mayor John Hamilton and Deputy Mayor Mary Catherine Carmichael as they discuss the recent Public Safety Report and the new $100,000 down payment housing program for sworn police and fire.

At the 7th Annual Public Safety Report meeting, Mayor John Hamilton announced a new $100,000 no-interest down payment assistance program for up to 10 police officers and 10 firefighters as an incentive to live in the city of Bloomington. Commencing immediately, the pilot housing program is the only known program in the country. After 10 years, participants will realize $100,000 in home equity. 

Attracting and retaining top firefighters and sworn police officers is a concern nationwide. Enabling police officers and firefighters to live where they work allows for better community connections and reduces crucial travel time in the event of an emergency situation. 

The housing incentive is part of a larger local effort to attract and retain vital public safety providers. Additional incentives were announced in 2022 (https://bton.in/~28-s), including signing bonuses, rental/down payment assistance, and take-home patrol vehicles for police; and rental/down payment assistance for firefighters (https://bton.in/aG3KI). 

The full Public Safety Report is available online at: bloomington.in.gov/public-safety/annual-reports 

Each week, Mayor Hamilton, Deputy Mayor Carmichael, and other city employees provide video updates on recent news and key initiatives. Access all of the weekly video updates at bloomington.in.gov/videoupdates.